Craving something sweet but not *too* sweet? These Japanese cake recipes are proof that less is more when it comes to creating unforgettable, subtly delicious desserts at home.
1. Japanese Cheesecake
Japanese cheesecake is wiggly and jiggly and full of mild sweetness. It is impossibly easy to make, and you likely already have the ingredients needed to bake it right now.
The flavor is a mix of sweet and tangy cream cheese goodness. I personally find this version much more elegant than American cheesecakes. It is lighter too, which means you can definitely enjoy more than one slice.
2. Matcha Swiss Roll
This distinct Swiss roll gets its attractive green color straight from matcha powder. That ingredient also gives it a unique and hard to match flavor profile.
It is a light cake that will not weigh you down. You will not feel like you inhaled a sugar factory after eating this one. It is an excellent choice for anyone who dislikes super sweet desserts.
3. Japanese Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake was a favorite dessert of mine growing up and it still is today. This Japanese version is different from the one I am used to eating, but it is just as incredible.
It is light and fluffy without being overly sweet. This beautiful and elegant cake features soft cake layers separated by cream frosting and strawberries.
4. Japanese Fruit Roll Cake
Imagine a fruit cake but in a spongy cake roll form. That is precisely what this Japanese fruit roll cake delivers.
It is a sweet vanilla cake filled with whipped cream and your favorite berries. The recipe recommends kiwis and strawberries, but you can experiment with whatever fruits you like. Blackberries and apples taste lovely in the mix too.
5. Japanese Castella Cake (Wagashi Sponge Cake)
The deep green swirl of this matcha pound cake is beautiful and appealing. It is so pretty that you might not want to eat it. But honestly, it is too good to pass up.
Just be sure to snap a picture first. It is spectacularly delicious and makes a terrific brunch cake for a hot summer day.
7. Chocolate Cake Roll
Eating this airy and pillow soft cake roll is like eating a chocolate cloud. Each bite practically melts right on your tongue.
It is a fantastic way to get your chocolate fix. You get all the rich cocoa flavor you love without it being too sweet. Since it is not too sweet, eating the whole thing yourself is easy.
8. Matcha Mille Crepe Cake
This matcha Mille crepe cake looks incredible. That green color pops at any angle and you know it is bursting with green tea goodness.
It features several super thin layers of matcha crepes. You will separate them with loads of whipped cream between each one. While it looks pretty straightforward, those crepes do take a while to make.
9. Japanese Chiffon Cake
Japanese chiffon cake might be the most unique looking cake on the list. It also has one of the most unique flavor profiles.
You will make it with vanilla plus matcha and Hojicha tea. The result is honestly a little hard to describe. Just try it for yourself and see what you think.
10. Japanese Cake Roll
Soft and pillowy cake rolls are surprisingly popular in Japan. Maybe it is their fun shape or the artistry that goes into making them.
Whatever the reason, this one is a simple vanilla dessert. It is sweet but not too sweet and refined but not hard to make. If you want an easy introduction to cake rolls, try this recipe.